If you have encountered an escort or other sex worker who you believe may be trafficked, exploited or underage, we would strongly encourage you to do the right thing and report your suspicions to the police immediately.

If you meet an escort who is foreign, perhaps with very little English, who appears to be frightened, unhappy or not wanting to perform sexual acts, or if you notice injuries to the lady, you should suspect trafficking. You should also watch out for ladies who appear to have their activities supervised by a "pimp" type figure or who are offering un-safe sexual services or appear to be working long hours and seeing a large number of clients perhaps not by choice.

It is not a crime to pay for sex in Ireland. It is against the law to have sex with an underage person (in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland). Since 2008, it is also against the law to pay for sex with a trafficked person in Republic of Ireland, and a similar law will probably be in place in Northern Ireland shortly.

If you suspect trafficking, exploitation or underage - LEAVE - and report the matter to the police.

If you would like to remain anonymous you can call Crimestoppers on 1 800 250 025 (Republic of Ireland) or 0800 555 111 (Northern Ireland). You can also email blueblindfold@garda.ie (Republic of Ireland) or fill out the secure online form on the Crimestoppers website (Northern Ireland).

Visit the Blue Blindfold website for further information about trafficking in Ireland.